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Video: Precision-Landing Rocket Flies Higher Than Ever

Masten Space Systems is flying rockets higher than it ever has before with the latest flight of its Xaero. The rocket launched from the company’s Mojave test pad and reached an altitude of 444 meters (1,457 feet) before returning to the pad for a precision landing. At first glance, launching a rocket a quarter-mile into the sky might not seem like much of an accomplishment. But right now Masten is focused more on the precision control of its rockets than on maximum altitude.

The company believes that precision landing capabilities poses one of the biggest challenges in the space program, and the task isn’t being met by many of the other next-gen space companies. Many rocket systems currently being used rely on a ballistic re-entry, basically free-falling back to earth under parachutes within a target range that can be many miles in diameter.

The latest flight of the Xaero rocket used a new set of landing gear Masten says saved them weight and reduced complexity and the associated replacement time for quick turnaround flights. And unlike many of its predecessors, the new Xaero features body work giving a classic, almost retro rocket look.

The Xaero rocket has been submitted for NASA’s Flight Opportunities Program with plans for suborbital flights carrying scientific payloads.